Julie Lester, a certified nurse aid, was honored with the BEE award for Extraordinary Patient Care during Care for Me Week at UNC Health Rockingham. She was nominated by a patient’s family for her warmth and care when they were not able to stay at the hospital. They described her as an extraordinary person and stated that she is highly skilled, extremely knowledgeable and compassionate.  They also said that she displays patience, kindness and embodies the spirit of a team player.

Along with nursing and hospital leadership, Lester’s husband was in attendance. “I was so surprised to see my husband and my colleagues gathered at the nurses' station for me," said Julie. "I love our patients and the team I work with every day. It is such an honor to be recognized with the Bee Award."

The BEE award is presented throughout the year to honor the extraordinary care provided by non-nursing support staff that go above and beyond to make an impact outside their daily duties. The support of other care providers is the foundation upon which a patient’s healthcare team can maintain phenomenal care and advocacy. Just as the Daisy cannot survive without the Bee, the nurses cannot survive without the outstanding teamwork provided by other healthcare professionals.

To nominate a supporting team member for The Bee Award® at UNC Health Rockingham, visit www.uncrockingham.org/thank-a-caregiver.

Photo Captions: 1) Julie proudly displays her BEE Award and statue. 2) Julie Lester, CNA (fourth from the left), is recognized with the BEE Award for providing extraordinary patient care by hospital and nursing leaders and peers at UNC Health Rockingham during Care for Me Week 2025.